Former county manager speaks out about decision to resign

Former county manager Eddie Bailes said his abrupt resignation at the end of April was a personal decision made by him and his family and he doesn't want that choice to taint the county's image.

"I've had a great working relationship with commissioners," Bailes told The Star on Tuesday morning. "They've done a great job for Cleveland County."

He said he is optimistic about the county's future and called commissioners "proactive in dealing with issues."

"At this point in time, I'm leaving primarily for personal reasons, not anything associated with commissioners or the county as a whole," Bailes said in a phone interview with The Star. "I'm sure there are rumors or questions. I wanted it to remain personal between me and my family."

He said it was not something he wanted to speak about publicly.

Bailes, employed by the county for more than 15 years, worked as assistant county manager under David Dear for several years and prior to that worked in the county's human resources department.

As for the future, Bailes said he plans to spend more time with his family and figure out the next step.

"I'm thinking very carefully about my career and next place I choose to go and where I land," he said.

Commissioner Chairman, Ronnie Hawkins, will be serving as chief operator until the county manager position is filled. Former county manager David Dear has agreed to assist county managers during county budget planning, Hawkins previously told The Star.